‘Hold Hostages, You’re Dead’: Trump’s Last Stern Warning To Hamas

In a stark warning during his address to Congress, President Donald Trump declared that if all remaining hostages are not released, further destruction will be unleashed on Gaza. Speaking from his platform on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Release all of the hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you.” He went on to warn Hamas leaders to flee, emphasizing that the U.S. is providing Israel with everything needed to “finish the job” against what he described as the terror threat.

A Fiery Ultimatum and Military Pledge

Trump’s remarks come as his administration expedites billions of dollars in weapons shipments to Israel amid escalating hostilities. The president asserted that his tariff and trade policies are part of a broader strategy to pressure adversaries, citing previous efforts to impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico. His stern language underscores a readiness to escalate military actions if Hamas does not comply with demands to release hostages and return deceased captives.

Direct Engagement with Hamas

In an unprecedented move, the U.S. confirmed direct discussions with Hamas. The White House has authorized its hostage envoy, Adam Boehler, to engage in talks with the militant group—a significant departure from decades of non-engagement since the organization was designated a terrorist entity in 1997. This development has sparked debate, with both sides weighing the potential impact on hostage negotiations and future U.S.-Palestinian relations.

International and Humanitarian Reactions

Trump’s hardline stance has intensified the volatile situation in Gaza, where Israel’s relentless military campaign has displaced nearly the entire population. Humanitarian leaders from France, Britain, Germany, and South Africa have condemned the blockade of aid into Gaza, describing the situation as catastrophic and likening it to the use of starvation as a weapon of war. Meanwhile, Arab leaders continue to push for a trust fund-based plan to finance Gaza’s reconstruction and for unified Palestinian representation under the PLO to challenge Hamas’s authority.

Political and Economic Implications

The ongoing conflict has far-reaching implications. With the release of hostages remaining a key issue, international diplomatic efforts are at a critical juncture. Trump’s rhetoric, which paints his actions as necessary to rescue American lives and protect national security, has polarized public opinion. Analysts warn that these escalatory measures could further destabilize the region, impacting global trade and economic stability.